AI minibus sightseeing route opens in Qianhai

An artificial intelligence (AI) minibus sightseeing route recently opened in Qianhai. Operated by the Shenzhen Bus Group, the route loops from Qianhai Stone Park, passing attractions including the Seaview Trail and Qianhai Stone Plaza. The approximately 12-minute round trip is currently free to reserve. 

An AI-powered minibus stands ready for service at Qianhai Stone Park. Photos courtesy of Shenzhen Bus Group

This electric, nine-seat minibus has no driver's cabin or steering wheel thanks to fully autonomous driving technology powered by AI. Equipped with advanced systmes, the minibus can recognize lane markings and traffic signals, safely overtake cars and change lanes, and navigate complex urban driving challenges with precision.

Passengers can see the vehicle's real-time trajectory and surrounding attractions on an intelligent information screen inside the bus. 

A coastal view of Qianhai Stone Park as seen from the sightseeing minibus.

This new route is the fifth smart minibus line in the city. The other four lines are B996, B997, B998, and B999, all of which are operated by the Shenzhen Bus Group in Qianhai. The four lines cover Metro stations, shopping districts, residential areas, central business districts, industrial parks, and cultural and tourism areas.

To book a free ride on an AI-powered minibus operated by the Shenzhen Bus Group, visit the “深巴出行” (Shenzhen Bus Travel) mini-program, click “自动驾驶” (Autonomous Driving), and choose your preferred route.

A screenshot showing how to book a free AI-powered minibus ride via the “深巴出行” (Shenzhen Bus Travel) mini-program.

Shenzhen first autonomous bus was introduced in 2020 in Pingshan District on a trial basis by DeepBlue Technology. Nicknamed the “Panda Bus” because it resembles a panda, it is equipped with a palm print recognition system and cameras that can identify people who smoke and commit crimes like theft, record the appearance of perpetrators, and immediately broadcast a warning. It is also wheelchair accessible and equipped with vending machines.

An AI-powered minibus provides service at Qianhai Stone Park.

At present, the Panda Bus runs between the Pingshan High-speed Railway Station and the Pingshan Biomedicine Enterprise Accelerator Park. It makes two trips on weekdays, and residents can use the “熊猫智行” (Panda Smart Travel) mini-program to make reservations.

In May of last year, a fully autonomous minibus was launched in the Xili area of Nanshan District. Devoid of a cockpit, it is currently being tested in a confined area bounded by four roads — Chuangke Road, Liuxian Boulevard, Shigu Road, and Chaguang Road.